Castle Ward

About

Castle Ward - an 18th century eccentric mansion house overlooking Strangford Lough

Castle Ward is an unusual double sided mansion house was built in the 18th century and stands amongst gentle parkland looking over Strangford Lough, in a beautiful 332-hectare walled demesne. Famed for its mixture of architectural styles and interiors, the side of the mansion which faces out across Strangford Lough is built in an elaborate Gothic style and the other half in a classical Palladian style. The working estate at Castle Ward once included a water-powered sawmill, cornmill and farmyard. Visitors to the estate today can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline of Strangford Lough.

Different sides to Castle Ward house

With one half of Castle Ward house built in a gothic style and the other side of the house in a more classical palladian style, the following story is told about this came about ... the story goes that the builder of the house, Bernard Ward, first Viscount of Bangor, did not agree with his lady wife about the decor. Bernard had a more classical taste but his lady wife, Lady Ann, was more partial to the fashionable Gothic style, this split in opinion led them to split the house down the middle. Eventhough the mansion accommodated both tastes, the couple went their separate ways after the work was complete with Anne leaving Castle Ward for good.

Where to explore in Castle Ward

There are 32km of trails to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback, each providing a different view of the surrounding landscape. From beauty spots like Temple Water, a man-made canal, to a tranquil bench in a hidden corner of the boundary trail, there's always more to discover on your journey. We ask that dogs remain on leads while on the trails and have a dedicated exercise field where your dog is free to run safely. The Secret Shore Nature Trail is an adventure for the whole family, and the Woodland playground is open for play.

In the historic Stableyard you'll find the secondhand bookshop, retail shop and tea-room where you can warm up with a hot drink and takeaway snacks. Try a Dexter beef sausage roll made in-house from our own Dexter herd.

Game of Thrones® Filming at Castle Ward

Step into a fantasy world of as you explore the Georgian farmyard and the Lough shore, film locations for the television series Game of Thrones®. Castle Ward’s historic farmyard was featured as the location of Winterfell for much of Season 1. It’s where you'll find the Whispering Wood and key scenes including Robb Stark’s Camp, the Baelor battle and when Brienne confronts the Stark men.

Note - Due to livestock grazing, some areas may be restricted between 1 March and 30 November and signage will be in place for any affected trails.